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Empanada spots

A day of activity that ends with empanadas that taste like they were made with care, not just pulled from a freezer.

Based on 555 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
The Messi Experience Chicago image 1
The Messi Experience Chicago image 2
The Messi Experience Chicago image 3
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Exhibition offers immersive rooms and interactive soccer-themed games that engage visitors of all ages. Atmosphere balances family-friendly fun with an inspiring look at a sports icon's life. Visitors often enjoy delicious empanadas as part of the experience.

Interactive games provide a lot of fun and keep the experience engaging. The activities are detailed and enjoyable for all ages, including kids around 8 years old.

Delicious empanadas stand out here. They make a great finish to the meal and are worth trying.

People are saying

"The interactive games here are so much fun for everyone."

"The museum's exhibit on Messi's journey is truly inspiring."

"You have to try the empanadas; they were delicious."

Good to know

1

Tickets are more expensive than average, so budget accordingly.

2

Free parking is available on-site for visitors.

3

The experience is great for families and kids of all ages.

02
Nitro Nostalgia image 1
Ice cream shop

Liquid nitrogen tanks stand visible in a spacious, eclectic space filled with vibrant decor and nostalgic board games. The atmosphere blends whimsical nostalgia with laid-back social areas where people play games and enjoy ice cream. Boozy ice cream options add a unique twist to the experience.

Bright, eclectic decor sets a lively tone. Unique dessert options create a fun experience that appeals across ages.

Empanadas come fresh daily and cook with care, filled generously with ingredients like beef sirloin. They pair well with creative ice cream mixes, adding to the lively atmosphere.

People are saying

"I thought the ice cream here was crazy good."

"Watching the milkshakes being made was so interesting!"

"The empanadas and ice creams here are delicious and fresh."

Good to know

1

They have events often that support other local black-owned businesses.

2

For January, there is no venue charge for parties up to 30 people.

3

Expect a 25-minute wait for ice cream during busy times.

03
ReFeel Cafe image 1
Coffee shop

Small coffee shop with cozy ambiance and cute decor featuring anime, flowers, and artwork. Offers customizable drinks and in-house pastries alongside board games, manga, and a free photo booth for a relaxed, fun atmosphere. Seating encourages lingering to enjoy drinks, food, and leisure activities.

Cozy spot with board games offers simple, fun activities. Games provide a relaxed way to enjoy time here.

Ham and cheese and beef empanadas come with baked crusts and savory fillings. They pair well with biscoff and ube lattes for a tasty combo.

People are saying

"I loved their delicious strawberry matcha with oat milk."

"The owner is so sweet and makes the empanadas from scratch."

"It's a cute and cozy spot with some fun games."

Good to know

1

ReFeel Cafe hosts various events throughout the month, check their schedule for details.

2

The cafe is allergy-friendly and offers natural sweeteners.

3

Parking is available nearby, making it convenient to visit.

04
Chicago Mama's Kitchen - Catering, Mixology & Culinary Experiences image 1

Restaurant offers a stunning interior with art and flower installations that create a tropical vibe. Live music and board games add to a welcoming and intimate atmosphere. Cocktails like mojito flights and unique rum drinks complement large, flavorful empanadas and Puerto Rican dishes.

Expansive high ceilings and a fun atmosphere create a sense of escape from the city grind. Classes are professional, engaging, and combine education with fun, led by a knowledgeable and warm instructor.

Large empanadas feature a golden, crispy crust filled with juicy meat and cheese. Varieties like Cochinita, Lechon, and Macho Man offer great flavor, often enhanced by chimichurri sauce.

People are saying

"Chef Inez was so kind and knowledgeable teaching us about empanadas."

"I learned a lot and had a fantastic time at the cocktails class."

"I had so much fun making empanadas and learning about drinks."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted cocktails.

2

Cocktail classes require reservations at least one week in advance.

3

Bingo night takes place every Wednesday at 7pm with a $5 entry fee.

05
Aurora Farmers Market - Downtown image 1

Farmers' market features local coffee and food trucks, face painting for kids, and a variety of vendors selling produce, crafts, and baked goods. It has a lively atmosphere with a vibrant vibe and friendly vendors. The market offers farm-fresh meat, fruits, and vegetables alongside unique items like empanadas and Romanian bakery products.

Fun activities include face painting and temporary tattoos for kids. The atmosphere stays lively with a variety of food and items to explore.

A large selection of ready-made empanadas stands out here. The empanadas taste very good and come highly recommended alongside BBQ.

People are saying

"I loved the fun atmosphere and the variety of food here."

"The market has farm-fresh produce and many other great things."

"I came here for the empanadas, and they were very good."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy at the farmer's market.

2

The market has a good variety of vendors offering produce, baked goods, and crafts.

3

Prices at the market are generally reasonable.

06
Hacienda Calavera Schaumburg image 1

Restaurant offers unique live entertainment with DJs and themed drink presentations. Decor features Instagram-worthy spots like neon signs and photo benches, creating a lively and fun atmosphere. Music is energetic but can be loud during lunch, attracting celebratory crowds.

Live drink presentations add a fun and unique touch with cocktails served in a shopping treasure chest and a skull goblet. The Calaveria de Chocolate comes with floating lights and a server in a giant Dรญa de los Muertos skull, creating an energetic and nonstop fun atmosphere.

Shrimp empanadas stand out with their delicious flavor. The empanadas pair well with a spicy guacamole and a special sauce that boosts their taste.

People are saying

"The food here was delicious."

"The atmosphere here is so fun and festive."

"The empanadas here are delicious, especially with the sauce."

Good to know

1

On Friday nights, there is a DJ from 10:00 pm to 2:00 am.

2

Expect 2-for-1 margaritas on Tuesdays.

3

They celebrate birthdays with singing and personalized menus.

07
El Capitan Restaurant image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant with live mariachi music and an atmosphere that blends nightclub energy with open, inviting decor. The space feels comfortable and lively, drawing a friendly crowd who enjoy vibrant evenings. A well-stocked bar complements the dynamic setting.

Birthday celebrations feel special with attentive care. Live Mariachi Gavilanes bring energy and create a fun environment for seafood and Mexican dishes.

Shrimp empanadas stand out with their cheese filling and rich flavor. They serve well as a hearty appetizer or a small meal.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious."

"I caught live music and a mariachi band on the weekend."

"I thought the shrimp empanadas were delicious."

Good to know

1

On Sundays, they have a mariachi band performing live music.

2

Karaoke is available on Thursdays with a two-drink minimum.

3

Fridays and Saturdays feature live bandas and DJs for entertainment.

08
Hacienda Calavera image 1

Gorgeous space filled with festive mariachi music and themed costumes creates a lively, celebratory atmosphere. Guests enjoy beautiful decor perfect for photos and a vibrant energy that suits special occasions. Live bands and authentic Mexican vibes distinguish this restaurant from others.

Birthday celebrations include sparklers that add excitement. The atmosphere supports fun gatherings with loved ones and life celebrations.

Steak empanadas come with a creamy sauce and a mildly spicy dipping sauce. They taste decent but overall rate around 6 out of 10.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious."

"Celebrating birthdays here is a super fun activity."

"The carne asada empanadas are flavorful and seasoned well."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for birthday celebrations.

2

Mariachi music is featured every Friday night at 7:30 p.m.

3

Birthday guests receive special treatment, including a dessert and song.

09
EL RINCON DE FABIO LLC image 1
Venezuelan restaurant

Small space filled with beautiful Venezuelan decor and a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere. Latin music plays softly, creating an awesome vibe that feels welcoming and pleasant. Outdoor patio offers a nice option for seating in good weather.

Fun atmosphere shines with lively music and an engaging environment. Authentic dishes add to the overall delicious and enjoyable experience.

Empanadas feature a perfect crust and seasoned stuffing that stands out. The shredded beef empanadas come with a fire sauce that adds a warm, satisfying kick.

People are saying

"I found the pabellรณn arepa to be delicious."

"These empanadas have a perfect crust and bold, seasoned fillings."

"The atmosphere here is so fun and the food is delicious."

Good to know

1

Free drinks are offered after 5pm every day.

2

Enjoy free margaritas daily after 2:00 PM.

3

Free wine is available on Fridays.

10
Tequila Mucho - Cantina & Grill image 1

Mexican restaurant with spectacular decor and plenty of room to dance creates a lively atmosphere energized by great live music and DJs. The vibe stays upbeat and welcoming, making it a spot where music drives the energy. Food and drinks vary, but the focus remains on the social and musical experience.

Lots of fun happens here with a lively atmosphere and good music. It stands out as an awesome spot for enjoying yourself in the suburbs.

Empanadas have a crispy exterior and a savory filling with well-seasoned meat. Beef empanadas stand out, often enjoyed with just a pinch of salt on the dough.

People are saying

"The DJ played all the hits and kept the dance floor going."

"I had a blast and found it to be just a lot of fun."

"These empanadas are fantastic with a crispy exterior."

Good to know

1

They stop selling food at 10 pm.

2

There was free parking available.

3

Expect long wait times if the main cook is unavailable.

11
La Costa image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant with live mariachi music creates a loud, energetic atmosphere that can make conversation difficult. The space includes a patio area and a bar along the back. The vibe is lively and festive, centered on the intense sound of live bands.

Live bands create a fun atmosphere that keeps things lively. Drinks and tasty dishes add to the entertaining vibe.

Shrimp empanadas feature flaky dough and a cheese filling, though some orders lack shrimp. Varieties include stuffed pineapple and steak options, with mixed reviews on quality.

People are saying

"The seafood here is authentic and bursting with flavor."

"The live bands created such a fun atmosphere."

"The empanadas have flaky dough and a delicious cheese filling."

Good to know

1

Weekend dinners usually have a long wait, so arrive early.

2

Mariachi bands perform at La Costa occasionally, adding to the atmosphere.

3

One person can pay for 20-30 songs from the band to sing at their table.

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